Vote counting is still under way in South Africa’s local government elections, but early results point to significant shifts in voter support. The ANC appears to be losing ground in several key metros where it previously held outright majorities.
In the Western Cape, ActionSA has made notable breakthroughs, becoming the largest party in Laingsburg. The Patriotic Alliance has also strengthened its position in Prince Albert, where it emerged as the biggest party.
In Buffalo City, an ANC stronghold in the Eastern Cape, the party’s support has dropped sharply from 62 percent in 2021 to just over 46 percent with around 30 percent of votes counted. Projections suggest the ANC could finish near the 40 percent mark, while both the DA and UDM are expected to gain support.
In Mangaung, the DA has overtaken the ANC in the early count, with the EFF and FF Plus also showing growth. Analysts predict the ANC could end on 37 percent in the metro, while the DA may secure around 30 percent.
The trend raises the possibility that the ANC may no longer govern any metro on its own once final results are declared.
In Gauteng, ActionSA is emerging as a major challenger, making early gains in Ekurhuleni, Tshwane and Johannesburg. The DA is leading in both Tshwane and Johannesburg, with ActionSA competing closely with the ANC.
In KwaZulu-Natal, the ANC is losing support to the MK Party and the IFP, particularly in the north of the province. The MK Party has already emerged as the largest party in eNdumeni after taking several wards from both the ANC and IFP.
